The sequined dresses, oversized sunglasses, designer handbags, and effortless arrogance were gone. She wore a plain gray blouse, her hair was unstyled, and she kept staring at her trembling hands while her court-appointed attorney reviewed the final judgment.
Rachel spoke first.
“The superior court has finalized the amount owed after fifteen years of unpaid child support, concealed assets, and accumulated interest. The total judgment payable to the family trust is $542,000.”
Chloe flinched.
“I don’t have that kind of money anymore! Daniel froze my accounts during the divorce. He took back the Mercedes and threw me out of the estate.”
Jessi did not hesitate.
“You owned fifty percent of the downtown condo Daniel purchased before your marriage. The sheriff’s auction closed yesterday. Your share produced $480,000.”
Chloe stared at her.
“The remaining $62,000 will be garnished from your wages.”
Her eyes immediately filled with tears.
“Jessi, I’m your mother. How can you do this to me? I made a mistake fifteen years ago. I was young. I was overwhelmed.”
